The 2018 Penfolds St Henri Shiraz is a classic and age-worthy expression of Australian Shiraz, celebrated for its purity of fruit, savoury complexity, and traditional winemaking style. Produced by Penfolds, St Henri occupies a unique place within the Penfolds portfolio, distinguished by its maturation in large, seasoned oak vats rather than new oak, allowing vineyard character and structure to take centre stage.
The outstanding 2018 vintage across South Australia delivered Shiraz of exceptional balance, concentration, and tannin quality. St Henri is crafted from premium multi-regional fruit sourced from renowned regions including Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, and Clare Valley, resulting in a wine that combines richness with restraint and complexity.
In the winery, the wine underwent traditional fermentation before maturation in large, old oak vats for approximately 12 months. This time-honoured approach minimises overt oak influence and preserves the wine’s signature style of savoury depth, textural refinement, and long-term ageing potential.
The bouquet is layered and expressive, revealing aromas of blackberry, plum, and dark cherry, intertwined with notes of anise, spice, earth, dried herbs, and subtle leather complexity. The palate is medium- to full-bodied and beautifully proportioned, with supple fruit, finely woven tannins, and bright acidity carrying through to a long, savoury finish.
While approachable with decanting, the 2018 St Henri Shiraz remains youthful and structured, with the capacity to age gracefully over 20–30+ years, developing further tertiary complexity and savoury nuance.
A benchmark Australian Shiraz that highlights elegance, structure, and the enduring appeal of traditional Penfolds winemaking.
